Beerleaguer's Take

Chad Durbin adds bullpen versatility and a much-needed long reliever, while Yuniesky Betancourt is yet another free-swinger with poor plate discipline (see story.)

The Phillies have signed veteran reliever Chad Durbin to a one-year deal with an option for 2014, CSNPhilly.com Phillies Insider Jim Salisbury has confirmed. The deal is pending a physical.

This will be Durbin's second stint with the Phillies. The right-hander spent 2008-2010 with Philadelphia, during which he went a combined 11-7 with a 3.62 ERA over 194 appearances.

Durbin, 35, spent last season with the Atlanta Braves. He went 4-1 with a 3.10 ERA in 76 appearances.

Durbin gives the Phillies another right-handed middle relief option. The Phils previously added right-handed set-up man Mike Adams to bridge the gap to closer Jonathan Papelbon. The bullpen competition will be one to watch in spring training, as the Phils have a plethora of young relievers who will vie for spots on the opening day roster.

The Phillies also on Monday signed infielder Yuniesky Betancourt to a minor league contract, which includes an invitation to major league spring training. In 57 games for the Kansas City Royals last season, Betancourt hit .228 with seven home runs, 14 doubles and 36 RBIs.